Article C5.13.4

Idle speed control target

Technical Regulations

Article C5.13.4

FIA Source

Idle speed control target

Chapter: C5

In Simple Terms

F1 cars have a computer system that controls their engine speed when idling (sitting still or coasting). This rule limits how fast that idle speed can be set to a maximum of 4,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). This prevents teams from gaining unfair advantages by keeping their engines running faster when the car isn't actively accelerating.

  • The idle speed control system in F1 cars cannot be programmed to exceed 4,000 rpm
  • This applies when the engine is running but the car is not under acceleration
  • The regulation ensures fair competition by preventing teams from using high idle speeds as a performance advantage
  • This is a technical specification that must be verified during technical inspections
Official FIA Text

The idle speed control target may not exceed 4,000rpm.

idle speedrpmengine control4000 rpm limittechnical regulation
2026 Season Regulations

Related News